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Friday, April 25, 2014

Virginia Bluebells - one of my favorite spring flowers. While my photo from my garden may not be the finest (hard to focus and get the right depth of field while lying on the ground to get a portrait), I hope you can imagine a lovely grouping of bluebells and how soothing they can be to the soul.

I must thank all of you who commented on my "Tired" feature. Your messages were inspiring, heart-warming, and motivating. A few even gave me a few tips for treatment follow-up. You are why I continue to write this blog, and you inspired me to keep plugging.

I read at WWD this morning that Bare Escentuals has finally created a liquid foundation. I was flabbergasted.

"BareMinerals is launching a foundation in the serum form that is very different from other liquids on the market. If you need to use liquid and won’t use anything else, we finally have a solution for you,” said Leslie Blodgett, creator of Bare Escentuals. “We still want people off liquid foundation. We are against liquid foundation. This isn’t a liquid foundation, just like our original bareMinerals was not a powder. We had to explain for years that it was crushed minerals and not a powder. This is a serum, and it has got half of the ingredients of a traditional liquid foundation. We felt that every woman deserves to have a foundation, whether it is in the serum form or powder form, that has the fewest possible ingredients that allows them to have the look and the health benefits that they want.”

Huh? It looks to me like the company is bowing to women's desires to wear liquid foundations, but doing it in a half-hearted way. If you want to get women off liquid foundations, don't make them. Of course, you will lose market share, but stick to your principles!

Clarisonic is on the move! Beginning May 15, the brand will introduce its smartest implement to date, the Smart Profile. They are moving the microchip from the handle of the device to the brush, using a technology called radio-frequency identification, or RFID which is said to better tailor the cleansing device to a user’s own skin needs and track usage. Additionally, there will be an enhanced turbo button. I've wondered for a long time how Clarisonic could continue to maintain a stable sales base with the saturation of the product in the hands of American women. I'd guess this improved device could be the answer. I never bought a Clarisonic. I was sent a knock-off to test and enjoyed using it. I had a grudge. It seemed that Clarisonic had sent a free product to every blogger on earth - except me. It was a silly grudge, but now I may lose the grudge and give the new product a try.

I've been testing cleansers. My criteria have been that they must be creamy and hydrating, must have a pump dispenser, they must have a pleasant smell, and, of course, must work. I judge their effectiveness in removing makeup, grime, and such by taking a pad soaked with cleansing water and going over my freshly cleansed face. You would be surprised at how poorly some respected brands have performed! Caudalie Gentle Cleansing Milk is pleasant to use, but its performance was dismal. I can't believe how much grime comes off on the pad after I've cleansed and rinsed thoroughly. I just tested one by Sunday Riley, but the fragrance was just this side of rancid cream. Ugg. It's on the way to the trash. If you have any favorite cleansers that meet my criteria, please tell me in the comments. As you might imagine, I've used a lot, but I'm always looking for the perfect cleanser. You are an experienced group. Help me out, please.

It's time for the Friday Forum. I love this part of our week. What new products
did you discover this week? Did you find any deals you couldn't resist? Are you
using a fabulous product and want to sing its praises? Did you find a beauty
product disappointing? Do you have a question others might be able to answer?
Want to talk about skin care? What's new in your life? Just use the comments.
Don't be shy. Just make sure to ask any question you might have over the
weekend. By early the next week, most (not all) readers will have moved
on.

Once again, thank you for your kindness to me. It made me hurt a little bit less. Happy weekend!

Photo by Best Things in Beauty and courtesy of WWD, a great publication for beauty and fashion lovers

51 comments:

Dermalogica ultra calming cleanser is fragrance free but meets your other criteria. It is one of my longest running favourite cleansers. I am currently raving about Diptyque's new cleansing balm on my blog and to any one who will listen. No pump dispenser but the scent and effect (amazing grime shifting - my second cleanse with Bioderma had spotless cotton wool - with super soft skin. Susan, London

One suggestion - I know you have said on more than one occasion that you rarely return products. However, your comment about testing that Sunday Riley cleanser in particular caught my eye. If you purchase a product and find that the smell or scent is that off-putting, don't throw it away - return it! I rarely return myself...except in similar circumstances. I recently did return one of Tom Ford's new sheer lipsticks - which are not sheer at all - but that's not why I returned it. On all websites where I had seen this color in particular, it looked like a cool pink - the Tom Ford site, various store sites, many, many blogger sites. I get it delivered, and it was almost a salmon color - hardly cool pink. So, for a $50 lipstick, that's not cool - I sent it back. This was to TomFord.com - and I have to say it was handled beautifully - free return shipping and they refunded my payment super fast!

Hi CG. Wow, Bare Minerals just got a little full of themselves! We want women off of liquid foundation? Really? When did it become their job and role in life to determine what products women use? Oh well, I'll just shrug that off, I don't like or use their products anyway.

Cleanser recommendation: the soy face cleanser from Fresh. It is creamy, non-drying, and smells divine. I have very dry, but not sensitive, skin and I keep coming back to this. It gets everything off and doesn't strip my skin. I tested it many, many times after washing off makeup by swiping afterwards with a pad saturated with the KGD spa cleansing water. Never a trace of anything on the pad.

I do have a cleanser I ADORE!!! I spend thousands of dollars on skin care products but nothing has rivaled this cleanser and convinced me to switch!! My favorite cleanser is from acne.org. It's just called cleanser. I know it sounds so simple, but sometimes best things are simple!! And this one is super cheap too! It's a gentle cleanser and isn't drying at all, don't think it's made for ance prone skin only. It's for anyone that wants a good cleanser, this doesn't have any acne medicine in it. I've used this for over 5 years and don't plan to quit! It does come in a pump, it does lather up, it removes makeup effectively and it's non drying clear liquid gel formula. It doesn't have any added fragrances. Please try it, their aha and jojoba oil are awesome too, very inexpensive! The AHA keeps my face and arms smooth. You get a lot of product so u can use everywhere. I sound like a ad, but I really do love this stuff and it's a fraction of the cost of all these high end products. Please try the cleanser, it stacks up to your requirements.

Hi CG,I too have found that Sunday Riley products are rather unpleasant scent-wise. I am usually fine with fragranced products, but even my husband commented on the "weird smell" in the bathroom after cleansing with the SR cleanser. It went in the trash here, too.

As far as a cleanser that meets all your requirements, I have had a good experience using Shiseido's Benefiance Creamy Cleansing Emulsion. It has been around for awhile, but is creamy, comes in a pump, and is not drying. I tend to be a bit more combination skin, so at home I use a foaming cleanser for that squeaky clean feeling, but the Shiseido is my go to travel cleanser when my skin is dry and stressed. Perhaps something to try out if you have never used it before!

I've tried the B.E. liquid foundation. I'm on the fence about it. It is a fluid type like Chanel's Aqualiumiere and Perfection Velvet, but its finish is a little different. On my combo-dry skin, it was kind of oily feeling--it has the slip of silicone, dries down satiny matte, then proceeds to feel very moist and look extremely shiny as the day progresses. Who wants flawless skin for a few minutes/hours only to have every flake and pore enhanced as it wears throughout the day? Also, the shade options are plentiful, but if you don't find the right match, it won't look like "skin."

I'm a little turned off that they have strayed so far from their original philosophy. I don't use their powder foundations anymore, but they built their brand on loose minerals and minimal ingredients. If they turn to pressed and liquid products, how are they different from other lines?

i think you have tried it before, but i can't recommend Tatcha One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil enough. it is in pump format, it smells delightful, and it is ridiculously effective on any and all makeup (simple powder, eyeshadow, the super-lasting eyeliner, mascara). nothing remains at the end, but gloriously clean, non-oily and not dried skin.

I really like the Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Cleanser. Pump bottle, good smell and not expensive. Do not know if it is too drying for you. Works for my roseacea. I just got the byTerry Ombréstar Cream Eyeshadow in Bronze Moon. Like very much. Also, the Dior Lipglow has reappeared in my life. Really like for every day. Hope you are feeling better.

I invested in a clarisonic Mia back in January. I used it faithfully for 3 months, battling terrible breakouts along my jawline and chin the whole time. I returned it within the return period, switched to the Fresh soy cleanser and haven't looked back. My skin is clear again. Clarisonic did not agree with my skin at all.

I've never been a fan of Bare Minerals. It seemed irritating to my skin each time I tried it.

Charlestongirl, I rarely comment, but I love reading your blog. Do whatever you can whenever you can, but please focus on your health and well-being first. We will be here when you return. Best wishes to you.

Hi CG, the best cleanser I have ever used is Yuli's Halcyon cleanser. http://www.yuliskincare.com/products-page/cleanser/

It is not a traditional cream cleanser but sort of a gel/cream cleanser. It does not lather much but it does an excellent job at cleaning and my skin always feels soft and hydrated after I use it - never dry or taut. I use 3-4 pumps in the shower and leave it on for a few minutes while I'm washing up and it's like using a mask. My skin looks so great afterward. I love it! They make their products to order too so you know your product will be fresh when you get it.

I know a lot of people feel funny about returning used (or unused) cosmetics/skin care and I admit I used to be in that camp. (I was too embarrassed) However, one day I had a good friend who told me, "you work hard for your money and if a cosmetic or skin care product honestly didn't measure up then why shouldn't you return or exchange it? That's YOUR hard earned money!"It really stuck with me and now I don't hesitate to do just that. I know for some it's just not worth the hassle, or embarrassment, but I suck it up and just keep repeating to myself, "it's my money, it's my money."

As far as face wash, I really like most of Paula's Choice cleansers. I have dry sensitive skin.

It's not creamy, but I've been using Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water. It removes all makeup and it doesn't dry my skin. The only disadvantage is a little bit of stinging if I get it in my eyes. I buy it at Barneys and it's on their website.

I have a different skin type (oily sensitive)so it may suggestions may not be as hydrating but I can recommend some from a pump bottle. Sisley Paris cleansing milk with sage worked well for me, and if you want hydrating their cleansing milk with white lily might be a good option. It would require a separate eye makeup remover, but does a good job removes sunscreen and everything no one go and can be removed with a dap cloth or just a dry one if you don't want to use water, it can be pricey though. Another option would be Madara eco cosmetics cleansing milk. The Madara is much less expensive and organic but a little weaker, it would be best used a double cleanse once to remove makeup, another to cleanse whereas the Sisley does it all in one go. But it does remove eye makeup unlike the Sisley. I liked their moisturizers (which I buy) and the sample I got of this cleanser. I seems like cleansers are the hardest part of a skin routine to find, its always the hardest for me to find. Ironically I don't think you missed much in the clarisonic, my sensitive skin hated it-my eczema and Rosaria flared up. Yet everyone seems to rave about it.

I'm sorry to say that I don't have any recommendations for a cream cleanser. Although I've tried some good ones, I always quickly return to cleansing oils to remove my makeup, sunscreen, and daily dirt. As you know, I've been completely devoted to Tatcha's gentle, yet efficient, cleansing oil for the past few years.

I was surprised when I read the blurb you included about the liquid foundation BE is bringing out. Leslie is spouting a lot of marketing mumbo-jumbo by saying it isn't really a lliquid foundation the same as her crushed mineral foundation isn't really a powder. I know what a liquid foundation is and I know what a powdered foundation is and that is exactly what BE offers despite Leslie's claims to the contrary. And, I agree with Deb that BE sounds terribly imperious with that "We still want women off liquid foundation. We're against liquid foundation." I understand that there are people for whom BE is the Holy Grail of powdered products (and finely crushed minerals is, in fact, powder), but that doesn't mean that the rest of us are in need of rehab because we don't like the flat and oddly reflective appearance her products give the skin.

Reviews and swatches of Chanel summer are beginning to surface and I must say I'm in love with the easy-breezy collection. The bronzing highlighter in particular is drop dead gorgeous! (Linda at Silverkis' World called it a "bronzilighter" :-) ). Tell me, Charlestongirl, can a girl ever get enough rosey gold goodness into her life or am I singing to the choir! LOL I'll have to check in with the Chanel counter today to see when they expect it to arrive. It's simply irresistible.

I'm also interested in the new Dior Addict Fluid Sticks. I'd be very pleased if they are similar to Chanel's discontinued Rouge Allure La Laque. I used to have quite a few of those and really loved the formula. It's something else to check today when I visit the beauty counters.

Charlestongirl, I know that working women are seldom "off duty" on weekends, but I hope you'll find time to relax and do the things that you enjoy. You give all of us so much pleasure, it's a small wish that we give you some in return.

Hello CG!! Those beautiful flowers are hopefully helping lift your spirits :-) Had to rave on the forum about the new Dior Addict Fluid Sticks. I love all things beauty but lippies are my favorite, love, obsession, crack, -you get the idea-The Fluid Sticks are amazing!!! This week I hauled Beige Whisper, Kiss Me , Tiny Pink and Mirage. OMG the formula is so elegant , the widened doe foot applicator is so comfortable and the color saturation is pretty close to perfect. I don't remember the last time I have loved a new lip product launch as much as these!Have a great weekend and keep your chin up :-)

If it must be in a pump, I really like LaMer cleansing oil. It does a great job removing makeup and leaves skin soft and not feeling stripped. While you search for a great cleanser, please take time for yourself-I'll still be here when you return!

mm For every day I use Chanel's Mousse Douceur which has been very helpful in improving my cranky skin but it's not a creamy cleanser. As a treat or when my skin is upset or has had full makeup on, I use the Tatcha Camellia cleanser which is amazing! I do remove my makeup with the Koh Gen Do spa water which I find to be gentle yet effective (but not for waterproof makeup). I have the Clairsonic Mia which I use 2-3 times a week because my skin will not tolerate more use.

BareMinerals...I never understood the hype. It was absolutely dreadful on my skin. Liquid foundations work much better and I'm sticking to my usual foundations.

I awakened this morning - after an awful dream that my father was still alive - to a long e-mail from Deb, who felt that I was dismissive of her suggestion of Fresh's Soy Cleanser. In fact, I was trying to say that I loved her suggestion, but I am lazy. I cannot take the time to squeeze out all the cleanser into an empty spray bottle and hope it has the consistency to work. I do indeed love the Fresh Soy Cleanser, and I have used every smidgeon of the samples I have received. I even bought a full-sized one.

Sometimes when I do take the time to write a note from work, it is too short and not fully explanatory. I hope no one thought I was being snarky to her, and I'm sorry Deb felt that way.

I tried the Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water, Melissa. It didn't clean my face. I was so hyped about trying it, I think I was doubly disappointed. I love that line, particularly their foundation.

I could go back to the TATCHA - or even Bobbi Brown's oil cleanser. They both work.

Anonymous, you are right about the Clarisonic. I should try the new one.

Nanase, I love Sisley's cleanser, but it doesn't come in a pump dispenser. Yesterday, I tossed a sample that was as empty as it gets. Everything about the Lait cleanser, except the container, is special to me.

Anonymous, I think I'll go try the La Mer cleanser. That was a great idea - as long as it has a pump.

I agree with all of you who said to send the Sunday Riley cleanser back, but remember, that takes time too. With precious little, it's easier to just throw it out.

To everyone who suggested Paula's Choice, I used to use her products - until she put retinol in her moisturizer for the most sensitive skins - a moisturizer I had loved. That was the end of her in this house. I am also bothered by her conflict of interest in selling skin care products and dissing those of every other vendor in her reviews. That doesn't square well with me. Paula should do one or the other.

Hope you have a restful weekend CG! I am a bit confused by your response about the Sisley cleansers. Both the Cleansing Milk with Sage and the Lyslait come in a pump dispenser. Have you tried the Sisley foaming mousse cleanser? That has a pump too. I have a "thing" about cleansers with pumps as well, so I totally understand. I too wish that the Fresh cleanser came in a pump - I don't know why it doesn't - I would even pay more for it! I love Sisley and I have never had a bad reaction to their products but it is such a pricey line!

Hi CG -I love my La Mer cleansers! I use the cleansing oil at night (and, yes, it has a pump!) and the cleansing lotion in the morning. The cleansing lotion feels amazing! I have super delicate skin - so much so that I can't even use soap in public bathrooms or paper towels to dry my hands. I carry around a small bottle of the La Mer Cleansing Lotion in my handbag. It feels healing to my skin as I massage it in, and if my skin is irritated, I feel relief almost immediately. Thanks for letting me share my ode to La Mer!

As much as everyone loves your blog, I think we all care about your wellbeing more. Take care of yourself - you are more important than your blog!

I was pleased to see you address one of the issues with Paula B. that I've had for a long time--her conflict of interest. I often check her Beautypedia for ingredient lists, but that's about it because I find that her actual reviews are sometimes downright misleading. Example: I was looking for something to help control the redness when my rosacea flares up. I had heard good things about a particular product and so I looked up the review and was surprised when one of her "cops" said the product did not contain anything that would help reduce redness. Of course, the reader was then referred to one of Paula's products. Well, I'm not a cosmetic chemist, but even I could see the product contained four ingredients that are well known for being anti-inflammatory. So much for "unbiased" reviews! In another review, a "cop" took a brand to task for offering a number of different moisturizers; saying if the moisturizer (being reviewed) was so great, why did the brand make other moisturizers as well. Obviously, that "cop" hadn't seen Paula's huge selection and didn't know something as basic as one moisturizer is not going to suit everyone. I could go on and on--but I won't :-)

I realize Paula has quite a loyal following and her site is a great resource for ingredients, but her reviews are often inadequate and flawed and they are colored by her personal biases and desire to sell her own products. I don't fault Paula for launching a successful business. Good for her! She's not the first, nor will she be the last, to cash in on a "I'm looking out for you!" image. But for the consumer, caveat lector!

I like "This Works" gentle cleanser.Beauty Habit carries this brand (UK co.)However, I often order from Beauty Bay (lower prices & special offers) which has free US shipping. Note: One should have a credit card which does not charge a foreign transaction fee, and order will not arrive for several weeks.I also use Bobbi Brown's cleansing oil. I am partial to foaming cleansers, but I read that foaming agent is bad for sensitive skin. I have Body Shop's Aloe Vera & Nutriganics foaming cleansers. I don't use them everday. These all have pump dispensers. I have learned that when you have sensitive skin, it can be trial & error re what is personally irritating - no matter what the label or other people say about the product. I avoid anything that says "brightening" or mentions radiance, from previous bad reactions using samples.Thank you for your wonderful blog and your dedication.

I am a bit late to the party but I love love love love (love!) 37 Actives cleanser. My skin feels soooo amazing during and after use. I know everyone says that cleansers aren't on your face long enough to benefit from special ingredients but I say poppycock!! My skin has improved tremendously since I started cleansing with it. I buy at spacenk. It does come in a (beautiful) pump. I don't know if it takes off make up - I use Darphin micellar cleansing water to sweep off make up.

Hang in there CG! You have a lot of beauty addicts sending caring thoughts to you!!

Fran says:Regarding Paula's Choice. A few years ago I started using her products which made me then see all her reviews in a different light. As Eileen does, I check the site out for ingredients. My daughter is also allergic to Retinol, BHA and the C Ester so I just have her on the AHA liquid. I think Paula's on a roll with her BHA9 and the C Ester Serum. She abruptly dumped her Australian, New Zealand and Singapore Distributors in February and is now in the process of setting up her own distribution center in the next month or so. To be fair, there were some issues with the Australian distributor, but it just goes to show that primarily it's a business.

After reading your comments about the Dior Fluid Sticks, I went to take a look and came home with the ever so lovely Rieuse. The Dior SA was also kind enough to give me a sample card containing Pandore, Wonderland, Aventure, and the beautiful Mirage. I'm very impressed with the wear and comfort of this formula. I hope, though, that they bring out a better selection of colors. For a first release; however, it's impressive.

Cleanser: I'm also gleaning from everyone's recommendation. Mine so far is REN Hydraclam 3 cleanser. I would not use it to remove my eye makeup, though, but other makeup would do, including waterproof sunscreen.

Bareminerals: wow.. I still remember when the lady from Bareminerals (I think she is the founder) talked in QVC about how bad liquid foundation is. I agree w/ you & everyone here.. confusing message to say the least!

Paula's Choice: I'm a fan of her product, but I'm not attached to her. I take her review with a grain of salt, just like any other pitch out there, as Eileen so eloquently put it, "looking out for you" tactics. But yes, her cleanser works well but they are not "cream" kind, it still contain v. gentle surfactant.

Hello! I'm new to your blog and just saw your post on cleansers...I also searched high and low for the perfect cream cleanser and couldn't find one I was happy with. I finally settled on th Origins Checks and Balances, which I still use occasionally but it's not my favorite. My favorite though, is a balm cleanser, Emma Harrdie's Amazing Face Moringa Balm Cleanser. Have you tried it? I know it's not what you are looking for, but it's just so wonderful. I was terrified that a balm cleanser would leave my skin feeling greasy, make me break out, but it doesn't at all. It takes every bit of makeup off, smells lovely (I would wear a perfume that smelled like it) and leaves my skin feeling soft and hydrated and glowing. It is a little hard to find in the States but you can order it from Feel Unique and they have free shipping. Ok, rave over. I swear I don't work for them or anything I just love this cleanser, I have turned so many people on to it!!

I know it doesn't meet your recs but have you ever tried a balm cleanser? I was nervous that they would leave my skin greasy and break me out, but I tried Emma Hardie's Amazing Face Moringa Balm Cleanser and never looked back. Leaves my skin soft and hydrated, smells amazing, takes off every bit of makeup and grime...I have turned so many people on to it. It can be hard to find in the States but Feel Unique carries it and they have free shipping. Ok rave over. Also wanted to say I have just found your blog and it's great!!Best,A neighbor in VA!

I wish I had a pump cleanser to recommend, but my favorite (Shiseido Benefiance Creamy Cleanser) is extremely rich but only comes in a tube. Although it's decidedly not in a pump, I'm thinking of trying out Peter Thomas Roth's new Rose Stem Cell Cleanser after liking the results I've been getting with the gel mask.

I'm really excited to hear all of the buzz about the Dior Fluid Sticks! I also want to look at Lancôme's new lip gloss, but I can't remember what it's called. I need to start pulling out my little notepad and taking notes again. Pretty sure my memory isn't going to be getting better. ;) I also like hearing about Paula and her products/website. About 20 yrs ago I would go to the library and check out her book "Don't go to the cosmetics counter without me" or something like that. I've never tried her products, but like others have said, you can't help but notice that she favors her products over others. That really bugs me. Enjoy the rest of your weekend, everyone. I'll be shopping today since it is cloudy and 39 with an expected high of 49. Winter just keeps hanging on here.

Hello Again! So glad I could brighten your day CG, as you always brighten the days of your readers. I also want to give a "shout to" to your lovely commenters as you have some of the most articulate and interesting commenters - I'm so enjoying the conversation about Leslie Blodgett and Paula Begoun. Now I want to try the acne.org cleanser and 37 actives...

Hello, Cg! I urge you to abolish your Clarisonic grudge! I bought a Mia years ago on the advice of my physician. I love it! I love it so much I bought another and had it monogrammed! Silly, but hey. Anyway, I saw instant results. It, and the 2 Aveda skin care products I use, are the only things I have ever used that gave me instant, wondrous, results. I have a sensitive hide, fair with rosy tones, and I use my Mia twice a day, morning and night, and I no longer wear foundation. I get compliments on my skin constantly. The first time I used my Mia, my skin was brighter and glowed with health. I urge you to try it. As for cleansers, I use 2 from CHANEL. I will reup when they are gone. Your garden looks like heaven. How is Charlie?

If you look at Paula's Choice 'Beutypedia Reviews' tab and click on "best products' you will see many categories of many products that they gave glowing reviews to that aren't their own products. They seem to cut through the bull that beauty companies try to pitch. They look at research evidence regarding ingredients. Just because a company promises something about their product does not mean it is true. They have plenty of products without retinol. And for some people retinol works for them. What they don't have are useless and irritating fragances in their products and other problematic ingredients.

I love reading everyone's suggestions for cleansers. Everything seems to dry my face. I have tried several oil cleansers and think Tatcha will be my next purchase. I do want to try the Murad Vitamin C cleanser again. I tried it a few years ago and vaguely remember liking it. Has anyone else tried it? The Clarisonic did not work for me. At all. My skin broke out in horrible and painful pimples. I hope you get the rest you need CG. You must take care of yourself first and know this community of cosmetic lovers will be here no matter how often you post.

CG have you tried Eve Lom Cleanser with the Muslin cloth? I think we have similar skin types. I am smitten by it...my face has never felt more smooth and soft, it removes everything down to stubborn eye makeup, and it feels wonderful on dry skin (and on mine which is of a "certain age"). I actually look forward to using it on those days when my cheeks feel a bit parched because it soothes that tight feeling so wonderfully! Good luck with your quest...I hope this helps some!

OH--and the only way I can use the alien laser deathray gun is with the new luxe heads. Its the only option I have to not get a giant rash or zit city. I use LaMer cleansing gel with it. My makeup remover is DHC cleansing oil.

Have you tried Kanebo Sensai? From Japanese traditions of two step cleansing. You can choose combinations based on preference and skin type. I know they have pump forms. It is the my best way to take off makeup. The lovely scent is a bonus.

My doctor recommended Vivite (made by allergen, maker of juvederm etc). Anyway the vivite cleanser is tres elegante! It has no annoying smell , just a faint whisper of lavender(?). It comes in a pump and just a tiny amount is needed and it makes a somewhat frothy formula and is easily washed off.

It does not leave my dry , sensitive skin annoyed in any way which 98% of cleansers/skin products seem to do. And, it has glycolic acid in it which is supposed to be very good for aging skin.

About Me

Charlestongirl, a Virginia baby boomer, has a successful left-brain
business career, but her heart belongs to her right brain, which loves
the beauty industry, antiques, jewelry, gardens, and the finer things in
life. She loves sharing her extensive (and expensive) experience with
beauty products with others and hopes she can help you choose products
that are worth the splurge.
For more than you ever wanted to know, please click on the About
Charlestongirl page at the blog header.